"It used to do my head in," Kaidy admits. "It's not one of my natural talents. But it's quite calming once you get the knack for it, because you can't aim properly without a cool head."

She takes the gun out of its holster and clicks open the chamber, showing him how to load the bullets.

"Three rules: every gun is loaded, at all times. Even if you know there are no bullets in it, even if you can actually see it doesn't have bullets in it, treat it as if it does. Second: only ever point it at things you don't mind destroying. And lastly: it's not a toy, but at the end of the day it's just another tool. Don't be scared of it."

She flicks the chamber shut and secures it, then offers the gun to him, grip first.